This site will look much better in a browser that supports web standards, but it
is accessible to any browser or Internet device. For more information about web
standards and obtaining a compliant browser
Click here.

Legislation

Description

ESTABLISHMENT:The Divisional Boards Act of 1879 established Divisional Boards for the purpose of providing local government for portions of the colony outside the boundaries of municipalities. The district which was later to become the Indooroopilly Division was proclaimed as the Toowong Divisional Board on 11 Nov 1879. The more populated area of the district was severed from the Toowong Division and proclaimed as the Shire of Toowong on 20 May 1880. The remaining area of the Toowong Division was renamed the Indooroopilly Divisional Board on 2 June 1880.

FUNCTIONS:The primary function of the Divisional Board was to provide such public services and amenities as roads, bridges, water, sanitation and drainage, public health services, parks and reserves, cemeteries, etc. The Divisional Board also had powers in relation to the construction of buildings, fire prevention, public nuisances, places of amusement, public carriers, slaughter houses, markets, animals, traffic, etc.

The Board was responsible for administering the Local Fund, and, for valuing properties within the Division for the purpose of determining and collecting rates, which together with endowments and loans, formed its revenue base. The general powers of the Board were exercised through by-laws approved by Governor-in-Council.

ADMINISTRATIVE STRUCTURE:The Division was governed by a rate-payer elected Board comprising a chairman and a number of members. Special or general purpose committees were appointed and the Board employed its own officers to administer its business, headed by a Clerk. Divisional Boards submitted an annual Statement of Revenue and Expenditure to the Minister.

ABOLITION:The Local Authorities Act 1902 abolished Divisional Boards and created City, Town and Shire Councils. Thus existing Divisional Boards were constituted as Shire Councils. Under this Act, on 31 Mar 1903, the Indooroopilly Divisional Board became the Indooroopilly Shire Council.